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Written by Hulet Smith, OT
Diaper messes happen. In the special needs community, sometimes they happen with older, bigger kids. To avoid, handle, and clean up after these messes, special needs changing tables are designed to serve users and caregivers to facilitate comfortable, efficient diaper changes.
At #5 is the durable and hygienic Pediatric Polyester Covered Changing Table from Performance Health with an easy-to-clean cover.
This table can be used as a special needs changing table or as a shower stretcher. The polyester stain-resistant cover can be cleaned with common household cleaners. Made from blue steel tubing, the durable frame attaches to a wall, folding out of the way when not in use. The legs lock for stability when the table is being used.
It’s available in two lengths, 74 ¾ inches and 59 inches, and both models are 27 ½ inches wide. This changing table’s floor-to-counter height is 36 inches, and it has a weight capacity of 250 pounds. There is an optional 8-inch high safety rail that's installed by clamps; this rail is an upgrade and sold separately.
This strong, durable table saves floor space by folding up next to the wall when not in use. It’s a high-quality general-purpose special needs changing table that will fit in anywhere. It has an attractive price point and is a good investment, as it will last for years. It is a great choice for home users as well as those in a care facility, and its wide appeal makes it our number 2 choice.
The Pressalit Care 3000 Special Needs Changing Table by MAX-ability is designed to make caring for special needs adults and children easy and safe. The receiver tray under the mattress captures fluids and keeps messes to a minimum, creating a more hygienic environment.
Available in a fixed height or adjustable height model, both options have the same features and ergonomic design. If you are using this special needs changing table for showering and bathing, you can use a wall-mounted or handheld showerhead, with the water running through the vented mattress panels and into the receiver tray. From the tray, fluids flow through the included flexible drain hose and are channeled to a wall outlet or floor drain.
Assembly for either of the award-winning designs is uncomplicated. This changing table for the disabled can accommodate users up to 440 pounds and is ideal for K-12 special education, public or family restrooms, day care, hospitals, clinics, emergency rooms, and home care.
Its unique drain feature creates an easily sanitized hygienic environment, and its design options make it a great choice for a wide range of uses. The power option includes a caregiver-friendly remote control. With its high weight capacity and fixed or adjustable height, this table will meet the needs of a wide range of users in just about any setting, earning it the number 3 slot on our top 5 list.
Useful for everything from diaper changes to patient transfers between rooms, the versatile Mobi Height-Adjustable Changing Table and Transfer Aid by Smirthwaite USA has been chosen as the #3 entry on our list.
With electrical height adjustment, caregivers have easy access to patients at a comfortable working height with this table. It’s extremely maneuverable with swivel casters, and it locks in place with a foot pedal for stationary use. The side rails lower out of the way for smooth transfers. For users who can’t sit up without assistance, this table can be set in a reclined position. You can choose between an aluminum frame, which is lightweight and easy to transfer, and a steel frame for its durability and stability.
Raising or lowering this special needs changing table with the touch of a button reduces physical strain on a caregiver, eliminating the need to reach or lift. The adjustability also assists users, since the level of the table can be adjusted for the safest transfer possible. It has plenty of clearance to ensure enough space for a hoist.
With a weight capacity of 500 pounds, this sturdy table lifts and/or transfers larger-framed patients with ease, safety, and plenty of support. The versatility and multiple uses for this comfortably padded rolling special needs changing table have elevated it to the top of our list. Focused on user and caregiver comfort, the efficiency of use, and multiple safety features, this table is the most versatile on our list and will provide a comfortable user and caregiver experience.
While the Smirthwaite Hi-Riser Wall-Mounted Changing Table may have a sleek and modern design, it doesn’t compromise the quality or strength. This space-saving table can support up to 440 pounds and features a corrosion-resistant, stainless steel frame. With a range of sizes available, this Smirthwaite table can accommodate young children and adults and fit many different facilities and homes.
With an integrated safety rail, this table by Smirthwaite allows caregivers to comfortably change clothes or assist with hygiene care knowing there is an extra level of protection. These rails reduce the risk of patient falls and with convenient folding underneath the table, caregivers can fit wheelchairs and lifts flush against the surface for easy transfers. This streamlined design offers great compatibility with ceiling lifts and hoists as the flat surface gives caregivers the space to maneuver slings and seats. When not in use, the tabletop can be folded up and out of the way to save space.
Furthering the convenience is the hand remote that allows for effortless height adjustments. With the push of a button, the height can be set at the patient level for seamless transitions or at an ergonomic, working height for caregivers, reducing backaches and over-exertion. The cushioned surface is made from a water-resistant vinyl material that is easy to wipe clean, encouraging a sanitary environment. Bult for convenience, comfort, and longevity, the Smirthwaite Hi-Riser Wall-Mounted Changing Table is one you can count on for a lifetime.
Allowing users to shower and providing easy access for caregivers, our #1 pick is the Linido Wall Mounted Shower Stretcher Table from Handicare.
For anyone who needs to lay down while showering, this table’s simple and reliable design keeps users comfortable while allowing a caregiver to maintain an ergonomically correct position and reduce back strain. The shower stretcher is constructed of durable, waterproof materials.
It’s easy to install, and the frame is made of steel with the center portion fitted with a sheet of plastic-coated woven polyester. Stretched tight around the frame, it will adapt to the user’s body temperature for a comfortable shower experience. The sheet is flush with the frame for easy transfers, and it’s easy to keep clean.
It can accommodate a user weighing up to 330 pounds. It makes transfers easy and can stand up to heavy use for years. When not in use, this shower stretcher folds up next to the wall, locking in place to keep it out of the way when others are showering.
There are two models to choose from. The flat model is ideal for users who need to be turned frequently. It is accessible to left- or right-handed caregivers, and the user’s head can be put at either end. The adjustable model has a backrest that is easily lifted on the left side, facilitating easy access for hair washing. The backrest’s gas spring elevates the user between 5 and 80 degrees for comfortable reclining.
For anyone who needs to take a shower laying down, caregiver access is extremely important for comfort and for safety. This durable, easy-to-clean table makes showering safe and enjoyable, whether remaining prone or reclining with a backrest. The added convenience of folding out of the way when others use the shower adds to the features that have landed this special needs table at number 4 on our list.
Height-adjustable tables can be lowered so the user can get onto the table, or be transferred onto it, more easily with less risk of injury to the user or the caregiver, then raised to a comfortable height for diaper changing. They are usually battery or electric-powered, which can dictate where they need to be located.
Fixed height changing tables come in bench, cabinet, or wall-affixed models. They are less expensive, and because they often fold out of the way, they are great space savers. With a less customized experience, a caregiver might have to bend uncomfortably, or a user might need to use a mechanical lift to get on or off the table.
If you want to be able to move the table from room to room, you’ll need to opt for a model that is easy to transport. Moveable options include one with locking casters that can be rolled where it’s needed or a freestanding foldable table with folding legs that can be carried to another location.
Changing tables for the disabled act as everything from diaper changing stations to transport vehicles, to shower platforms. Being able to clean them easily and keep them sanitized is of utmost importance, and some models are constructed with anti-bacterial surfaces or slats for drainage. Storage is also a consideration, so caregivers can easily reach anything they need to care for the user. Padding, optional mattresses, and the ability to recline all impact the user’s comfort, while the ease-of-use for caregivers aids in efficiency and makes their duties more comfortable and less physically strenuous.
Without a changing table, the options for diaper changing are not very appealing. The floor is the only place that isn’t a fall risk. Even with a mat, it’s a strain on caregivers to get up and down to complete a diaper change. There is the option of a table that is designed for other things, but no one wants to have snacks or coloring or reading time at a table that was used to change diapers. A changing table that is built for safe diaper changes is the best option for the special needs population.
Standard changing stations are required in the men’s and women’s restrooms in all federal buildings. Different states have different rules, and most of those requirements have to do with public buildings rather than private businesses.
A changing table is most often used for diaper changes, which means ease of cleaning, storage for necessary items like diapers and wipes, and the safety of the user through rails or safety straps are all considerations.
To keep children clean, healthy, and comfortable, special needs changing tables are designed to fit bigger kids with special needs that might make diaper changes complicated. Whether clean up calls for an onboard sink, the option of a shower, or just a stable platform to get the job done quickly, special needs changing tables are designed to aid caregivers in creating the healthiest environment possible.
The versatility of the Mobi Height-Adjustable Changing Table and Transfer Aid is what earned its #1 spot on our list of best pediatric special needs changing tables. With a 500-pound weight capacity, it can provide bariatric users - and anyone else - with a comfortable experience. Not just a changing table, this piece of equipment is highly maneuverable and can also be used for user transport in padded comfort surrounded by safety rails and bolsters. In a nod to caregiver comfort as well, its height is easily adjusted to eliminate back strain from bending.
For more options, view our entire selection of Pediatric Changing Tables, Changing Benches, Portable Changing Tables, and Wall Mounted Changing Tables. Be sure to visit Caregiver University for more free, informative articles!
Co-founder/CEO of Rehabmart, Pediatric Occupational Therapist, husband, and father. Passionate about connecting special needs kids with superb nutrition, sensory integration, and complementary health strategies. Excited about Rehabmart's mission to become the premier online educational platform which empowers caregivers by spotlighting innovative devices and interventions to achieve optimal patient response and recovery.
